Chinese Water Dragon vs Uromastyx

Side-by-side care comparison to help you choose.

Chinese Water DragonUromastyx
DifficultyIntermediateIntermediate
Adult size24-36 inches10-18 inches (some species up to 30 inches)
Lifespan10-15 years15-20 years
Min enclosure75 gallon / 48x24x24 in40 gallon / 36x18x18 inches
Basking temp95-100°F120-130°F
Humidity60-80%10-30%
UVBYes - T5 HO 5.0 or 6% UVB (Ferguson zone 3-4)Yes - T5 HO 10.0 or 12% (Ferguson zone 3-4)
DietJuveniles: daily insects (crickets, roaches, mealworms) dusted with calcium; adults: every other day same insects plus some leafy greens.Herbivorous: dark leafy greens (collard, mustard, dandelion), squash, bell peppers, occasional seeds/legumes; no insects for adults. Feed daily with calcium supplement (no D3) every feeding.